2. Optimize hotel sales and marketing with better distribution.
Your group bookings are more successful when you acquire them in a cost-effective way. Top hotels have created channels where planners can book event spaces directly.
This move makes sense for properties and chains of all sizes because:
- Hotels can connect directly with planners.
- Hotels are able to build up a network of planners and improve repeat business.
- Over 50% of planners now do their venue research online.
List your property on venue marketplaces for more visibility.
More than half of event planners say the web is their primary source for sourcing venues. That means it’s high time for hotels to meet planners where they are.
A venue search engine can increase a hotel’s visibility to planners, while sidestepping OTA fees.
Platforms like Cvent Supplier Network let venues and hotels create a profile like the one below. Planners can search for venues and send RFPs.
Partner with CVBs.
Convention and Visitors Bureaus (CVBs) are local non-profits that are typically funded by a portion of hotel room occupancy taxes. CVBs recommend hotels and venues to planners based on the specific needs of the event. That means that RFPs from CVBs are generally more qualified than leads. Best of all, these leads come at no cost to the property.
Still, when working with CVBs, it’s your responsibility to educate them about the benefits of your hotel. Good CVBs are in tune with their local economies, and hotels can leverage this to build relationships with other vendors and industry pros.